As one of the largest hotel chains worldwide, Marriott operates thousands of properties globally. But what technology and systems help power Marriott’s operations behind the scenes?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Marriott primarily uses Microsoft Windows-based systems and Oracle Hospitality hotel management solutions across its locations.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the operating systems, enterprise software, and IT infrastructure Marriott leverages to run its hotels efficiently at scale.
Overview of Marriott’s Tech Stack
Marriott Hotels, one of the leading hotel chains in the world, relies on a sophisticated tech stack to power its operations. From managing reservations to providing a seamless guest experience, their technology infrastructure plays a crucial role in their success.
Let’s take a closer look at the key components of Marriott’s tech stack.
Windows Workstations
At the heart of Marriott’s tech stack are their Windows workstations. These devices serve as the primary interface for hotel staff to access various applications and systems. From front desk operations to housekeeping management, Windows workstations provide a user-friendly and reliable platform for Marriott employees to carry out their tasks efficiently.
Marriott’s adoption of Windows workstations is not surprising, considering the widespread use of Microsoft operating systems in the business world. Windows offers a familiar and secure environment, ensuring that Marriott’s operations run smoothly without any major compatibility issues.
Oracle Hospitality Solutions
Marriott Hotels relies on Oracle Hospitality Solutions to manage their core hotel operations, including property management, reservations, and guest services. Oracle’s suite of software provides Marriott with a comprehensive set of tools to streamline their operations and enhance the guest experience.
This integrated system allows Marriott to efficiently handle reservations, check-ins, and check-outs, ensuring a seamless experience for their guests. It also enables Marriott to track and analyze guest preferences and behaviors, allowing them to personalize their services and tailor their offerings to meet the needs of their guests.
IoT and Mobile Integration
Marriott Hotels has embraced the power of IoT (Internet of Things) and mobile technology to enhance their guest experience. Through the integration of IoT devices and mobile apps, Marriott offers innovative features such as keyless entry, personalized room settings, and mobile check-in/check-out.
With the help of IoT devices, guests can control various aspects of their room, such as temperature and lighting, using their smartphones. This level of control and convenience greatly enhances the overall guest experience.
Marriott’s mobile app also allows guests to easily manage their reservations, access hotel services, and provide feedback. By leveraging mobile technology, Marriott has created a seamless and personalized experience for their guests, setting them apart from their competitors.
Guest-Facing Systems
When it comes to providing a seamless and convenient experience for guests, Marriott Hotels relies on a variety of guest-facing systems. These systems are designed to enhance the overall stay by offering quick and efficient solutions to common guest needs.
Some of the key guest-facing systems used by Marriott Hotels include:
Marriott Bonvoy App
The Marriott Bonvoy App is a powerful tool that allows guests to manage their bookings, check-in and check-out, access exclusive offers, and even request services during their stay.
With just a few taps on their smartphones, guests can have all their hotel-related needs taken care of, making their stay more convenient and personalized.
The app also provides real-time updates and notifications to keep guests informed about any changes or important information.
Property Management Systems
Property Management Systems (PMS) are the backbone of hotel operations, and Marriott Hotels utilizes advanced PMS software to streamline various guest-related processes. These systems help manage reservations, room assignments, guest preferences, and other essential tasks.
By integrating with other hotel departments, PMS ensures smooth coordination and enhanced guest satisfaction. With the help of PMS, Marriott Hotels can efficiently handle guest check-ins and check-outs, manage room availability, and provide personalized services based on guest profiles.
Point-of-Sale Software
Point-of-Sale (POS) software is essential for managing transactions within the hotel, including restaurants, bars, and retail outlets. Marriott Hotels utilizes POS software to facilitate smooth and efficient payment processes for guests.
This software allows guests to conveniently charge their purchases to their room, eliminating the need for carrying cash or credit cards. Additionally, POS systems provide detailed reports and analytics, enabling Marriott Hotels to analyze sales data, track inventory, and make informed decisions to enhance guest experiences.
Back-of-House Systems
Behind the scenes of Marriott Hotels, a wide range of back-of-house systems work diligently to ensure smooth operations and seamless guest experiences. These systems are responsible for managing various aspects of the hotel’s day-to-day operations, such as finances, human resources, and procurement.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key back-of-house systems that power Marriott Hotels.
Finance and Accounting Software
Managing the financial aspects of a hotel is no small task, and Marriott Hotels relies on robust finance and accounting software to streamline these operations. This software enables the hotel to efficiently handle tasks such as tracking revenue, managing expenses, and generating financial reports.
By automating these processes, Marriott Hotels can accurately monitor its financial health and make informed business decisions.
One example of finance and accounting software used by Marriott Hotels is Oracle Hospitality OPERA. This powerful software solution offers a comprehensive suite of financial management tools tailored specifically for the hospitality industry.
It enables Marriott Hotels to effectively manage accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger, among other financial functions.
Human Capital Management Systems
With a large workforce spread across numerous departments, managing human resources efficiently is paramount for Marriott Hotels.
Human capital management systems play a crucial role in streamlining HR processes, including talent acquisition, employee onboarding, payroll management, and performance evaluation.
Marriott Hotels utilizes a variety of human capital management systems to optimize HR operations. One notable system is Workday, a cloud-based platform that combines HR, payroll, and talent management functionalities.
With this system in place, Marriott Hotels can effectively manage its workforce, ensure compliance with labor laws, and enhance employee engagement and retention.
Procurement and Logistics Tools
Efficient procurement and logistics are essential for Marriott Hotels to maintain a seamless supply chain and deliver exceptional guest experiences.
Leveraging technology, Marriott Hotels utilizes procurement and logistics tools to streamline the purchasing process, manage inventory, and coordinate deliveries.
One example of a procurement and logistics tool used by Marriott Hotels is SAP Ariba. This cloud-based platform enables Marriott Hotels to connect with suppliers, automate procurement processes, and gain real-time visibility into the procurement lifecycle.
By optimizing procurement and logistics, Marriott Hotels can reduce costs, improve supplier relationships, and ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
Enterprise-Level Infrastructure
Marriott Hotels, a global hospitality company, relies on a robust enterprise-level infrastructure to deliver seamless service to its guests. The backbone of this infrastructure is a combination of data centers, cloud computing, networking, connectivity, and cybersecurity measures.
Data Centers and Cloud Computing
Marriott Hotels operates multiple data centers strategically located around the world. These data centers house servers, storage devices, and networking equipment that support various applications and services.
By leveraging cloud computing solutions, Marriott Hotels can scale its infrastructure as needed, ensuring optimal performance and availability. The use of cloud technology also enables faster deployment of new services and applications, allowing Marriott to stay ahead in a highly competitive industry.
According to a recent study by Gartner, the adoption of cloud computing in the hospitality industry is on the rise, with many organizations recognizing the benefits of flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency that cloud solutions offer.
Marriott’s utilization of cloud computing aligns with this trend, allowing the company to efficiently manage its infrastructure while focusing on delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Networking and Connectivity
Marriott Hotels places a strong emphasis on networking and connectivity to ensure that guests have a reliable and secure internet connection during their stay. The hotel chain invests in high-speed network infrastructure to support the increasing demands of modern travelers, who rely heavily on internet connectivity for both work and leisure activities.
Through partnerships with leading network providers, such as Cisco and Aruba Networks, Marriott Hotels offers Wi-Fi access in guest rooms, common areas, and meeting spaces. This enables guests to stay connected seamlessly and enhances their overall experience.
Additionally, Marriott implements advanced networking technologies to prioritize network traffic and ensure smooth and uninterrupted service for critical systems and applications.
Cybersecurity Measures
Given the sensitive nature of guest data and the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, Marriott Hotels places a strong emphasis on cybersecurity measures. The company employs a multi-layered approach to protect its infrastructure and guest information from potential breaches.
Marriott implements industry-standard security protocols, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption, to safeguard its network and data centers. The company also conducts regular security audits and assessments to identify vulnerabilities and proactively address any potential risks.
By partnering with cybersecurity firms and staying up-to-date with the latest security practices, Marriott Hotels aims to provide a secure and trustworthy environment for its guests. The company recognizes the critical importance of data privacy and is committed to maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of guest information.
Benefits of Marriott’s Tech Stack
Drives Efficiency and Scalability
Marriott’s tech stack plays a crucial role in driving efficiency and scalability within their operations.
By leveraging advanced operating systems, Marriott is able to streamline processes and eliminate manual tasks. This allows their staff to focus on providing exceptional service to guests, rather than getting bogged down by administrative work.
One of the key benefits of Marriott’s tech stack is its ability to handle the high volume of reservations and transactions that occur within their hotel chain. The operating systems used by Marriott are designed to handle large amounts of data and seamlessly integrate with other systems, ensuring smooth operations and minimal downtime.
Additionally, Marriott’s tech stack enables them to easily scale their operations to meet the demands of their growing customer base. With the ability to add new hotels and properties to their network without disrupting existing operations, Marriott can expand their business while maintaining the same level of efficiency and service.
Enhances Guest Experiences
Marriott’s commitment to technology extends beyond internal operations and extends to enhancing the guest experience. By leveraging their advanced tech stack, Marriott is able to provide guests with personalized and seamless experiences throughout their stay.
One way Marriott achieves this is through the use of mobile apps and digital check-in/check-out systems. Guests can conveniently check-in and access their rooms using their smartphones, eliminating the need for traditional key cards. This not only saves time for guests but also adds a touch of convenience and modernity to their stay.
In addition to mobile apps, Marriott’s tech stack also includes state-of-the-art in-room entertainment systems and smart devices. Guests can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, control room settings such as lighting and temperature, and even request services or information using voice commands. These technological advancements contribute to a more enjoyable and memorable guest experience.
Supports Business Agility
Marriott’s tech stack is designed to support the company’s business agility and adaptability. With the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality industry, it is crucial for Marriott to stay ahead of the curve and quickly adapt to new market trends and customer expectations.
The operating systems used by Marriott enable them to analyze data and generate insights in real-time. This allows Marriott to make data-driven decisions and adjust their strategies accordingly. By staying agile, Marriott can respond to market demands, optimize their operations, and deliver exceptional experiences to their guests.
Furthermore, Marriott’s tech stack supports seamless integration with third-party systems and platforms. This enables Marriott to collaborate with other companies, integrate new technologies, and offer innovative services to their guests. The ability to quickly integrate and adopt new technologies gives Marriott a competitive edge in the industry and allows them to continuously improve their offerings.
Conclusion
From guest-facing apps to back-end infrastructure, Marriott relies on a robust, integrated technology stack to power exceptional experiences across its hotel empire.
By leveraging the strengths of platforms like Windows, Oracle, and more, Marriott runs global operations seamlessly while delighting guests through cutting-edge hospitality tech.
